IF YOU are a tennis fan (or even if you aren’t!), the Wimbledon fortnight gives us something upbeat to follow and focus on, following months marked by tragedies and political uncertainty. 

But, in sport – as in life – there are some things we just can’t predict. Will Murray beat Djokovic this year and win the championship again? Or will injury get the better of him?

All we can do is hope – and cheer on our favourites. The Bible uses the language of sport to describe what it means to successfully trust in God throughout your life (2 Tim 4v7-8). And living life well for God is like winning a game of tennis – about game, set and match!

Life is a game – with challenges, dilemmas and set-backs to deal with on a regular basis – and we should play the game well, with integrity, drive and passion, but also fairness, kindness and humility, when it is called for. 

If we play the game of life well then, in the end, God will reward us, not with a trophy or cash prize, but the unimaginable blessing of an eternity with him. The promise of that prize will keep us going when times are tough.

And when our strength fails and difficulties seem insurmountable, we should pray to God for his power, through the Holy Spirit. The power of God is more than a match for any of the challenges of this world.

So, in your life, as well as in your sport, make sure you play well, keep your eyes on your goal, and look to God for your strength. Then, whoever wins Wimbledon, it will be a great game, set and match result for you, and everyone will know you’re a winner. 

Happy summers everyone!

REV STEPHEN GOUNDREY-SMITH
St Andrew’s Church, Chedworth